“They pack a whole lot more generation potential into the
same area,” said Knudstrup.

The new panels are also angled at 30 degrees, adjusted from
the older 40 degrees, to try and capture more sunlight.

“As these companies compete to make panels more efficient,”
Knudstrup said, “we’re going to be able to generate more power with newer
panels.”

A new community solar project was also announced, allowing
companies and organizations to set up solar arrays from which BWL customers can
purchase the generated power, said Lark, without installing the panels on their
homes.

The new panels are part of a

renewable energy strategy to
make 10 percent of the renewable energy goal by 2015, a standard set by
Michigan law. Other aspects of the city’s renewable energy portfolio include
Moores Park hydroelectric unit along Grand River, the solar panels on top of
BWL’s REO Town Headquarters, and partnerships with Granger Landfill and
Tower/Kleber Hydro to supply alternative energy sources through landfill gas
and hydroelectricity respectively.